Maundy Thursday – the first of the three days of solemn remembrance of the events leading up to and immediately following the crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord Jesus.
The English word “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum, which means “commandment.” In John’s gospel (13:34-35), on the night before his betrayal and arrest, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples and then gave a new commandment:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (ESV)
Therefore in accordance with ancient traditions established by the early church fathers, Anglicans have in our liturgy both foot-washing and the Eucharist.
